Zia succeeded as soldier, politician, statesman, says Tarique

Bangladesh Nationalist Party acting chairman Tarique Rahman on Saturday said that Ziaur Rahman should be remembered in three distinct roles—as a soldier, a politician and a statesman.
Speaking virtually at a meeting organised by the Ziaur Rahman Foundation to commemorate the 89th birth anniversary of the party’s founder chairman, Tarique Rahman highlighted Zia’s achievements in each of these roles.
As a soldier, Ziaur Rahman made profound contributions to the nation. At a critical moment, he declared Bangladesh’s independence and inspired freedom fighters to secure victory in the War of Independence, Tarique said.
He said that as a politician, he rose to leadership when the country needed him and successfully united the people through his 19-point programme.
As a statesman, Ziaur Rahman played a pivotal role in fostering the growth of the readymade garment sector and creating opportunities for expatriate workers in foreign countries, establishing remittance as a vital economic resource for Bangladesh, Tarique said.
He said that Ziaur Rahman also took initiatives to create youth employment both domestically and internationally.
Additionally, Ziaur Rahman was a key figure in founding the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation, an effort that enhanced Bangladesh’s image and standing on the global stage, Tarique added.
New Age